Brass, enamel. Measures approx. 22.5 x 15.5 mm. Raised maker mark on the reverse.

Excellent condition. The enamel is perfect. The original gilt finish on the obverse is present. The pin back attachment is fully functional.

Please note, our photos show an example. If you order, we will send a badge of the same vintage and in the same excellent condition as the one shown.

This badge represents an important page in the post-WW2 history. It was established in 1958, just when the Cold War tensions were reaching their peak. At the time, the "Ready for Air Defense" program

Brass, enamel. Measures approx. 22.5 x 15.5 mm. Raised maker mark on the reverse.

Excellent condition. The enamel is perfect. The original gilt finish on the obverse is present. The pin back attachment is fully functional.

Please note, our photos show an example. If you order, we will send a badge of the same vintage and in the same excellent condition as the one shown.

This badge represents an important page in the post-WW2 history. It was established in 1958, just when the Cold War tensions were reaching their peak. At the time, the "Ready for Air Defense" program was run by the DOSAAF organization that trained the Soviet working age population in first aid, evacuation procedures, use of gas masks etc. The badge was awarded for passing the test demonstrating proficiency in all the required components of the program.

The late 1950s - early 60s was the period when humanity arguably came closest to nuclear holocaust. Although Soviet offensive capabilities at the time were incomparable to that of the US and its allies, Khrushchev engaged in a reckless campaign of challenging the West both diplomatically and militarily. The big gamble included building the Berlin Wall (in violation of the Potsdam agreements), blockading West Berlin, banging a shoe at the UN assembly, and exploding the world's biggest ever H-bomb (impressive but useless militarily). The gambit culminated in the Cuban missile crisis and ignominious Soviet retreat. When Soviet blackmail failed - thanks to the western military superiority - the USSR quickly recalibrated its foreign policy.

Following the ouster of Khrushchev, the new Soviet leadership changed emphasis to "peaceful coexistence" and from that point on tried to undermine the West mostly through subterfuge rather than military confrontation. The possibility of the all-out war receding, the Air Defense program lost any urgency. In 1966, the air defense training and management of assets was transferred to the Civil Defense authority. The "Ready for Air Defense" badge was abolished the same year.

Please note, the penny in our photo is for size reference.
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